Tigecycline

Background:

Tigecycline (Tygacil), a broad-spectrum glycylcycline antibiotic, received FDA approval in June 2005 for use in adults with complicated intra-abdominal infections and complicated skin and soft-tissue infections. A semi-synthetic derivative of minocycline, tigecycline binds to the bacterial 30S ribosomal subunit, blocking entry of transfer RNA and thus decreasing protein synthesis. It is bacteriostatic only.

Spectrum of Action:

Tigecycline has activity against many gram-negative aerobes, anaerobes, staphylococci (including methicillin-resistant strains), streptococci, and enterococci (including vancomycin-resistant organisms).

Clinical Trials:

Two phase II and two phase III studies have been completed, with clinical cure rates between…